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Dust cap problems!

I have had a number of instances when a customer has been caught out by a simple metal dust cap becoming stuck to the top of the valve stem. This is caused by corrosion and when they try to twist off the cap the valve stem breaks off allowing the air to rush out, much to the shock of the customer. Just today, a family about to set off on their holiday to Devon experienced the very same issue. Luckily it was a simple fix for me. Just remove the tyre and unbolt the alloy stem and fit a rubber one to allow them to be mobile. However, if you get caught out and help is not quickly available then you are stuck.

My advice is do not fit aftermarket metal dust caps. A smear of grease on the top of the valve stem can also assist in preventing the problem.

Whilst I am on the subject of dust caps there is another style that causes problems. These are the ones that have a little red / green indicator that is intended to change from green to red when the tyre pressure drops. The problem is that these depress the valve core that is intended to seal the valve. Depressing the core allows the air out allowing the dust cap to monitor the pressure. However, if the dust cap itself is not screwed tightly to the top of the valve or if the seal is ineffective then the air is allowed to escape and the tyre will deflate. This is a known problem, so again, do not fit them!

The picture shows a metal dust cap with the top of an alloy stem stuck in it and the valve core stuck to that. It all came off in one piece allowing the air to escape.

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